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Fresh, raw fashion talent!

Sunday, August 29, 2010

A little while ago I wrote a post about local fashion scene (in Croatia), where I focused on quality of collections and a vast number of fashion events as well as on really unfriendly climate among "key players" which in my opinion hurts local fashion industry and the talent we have on this geographically small but very fashionably conscious location full of potential.

Although there are still some leftovers of textile industry in Croatia, meaning: textile factories, knowledgeable and affordable labor force, some new talented young designers and fruitful, trend sensitive consumer base are waiting for much needed local production and business/legislative support to provide them with much needed financial boost.

I think there is not enough business knowledge behind the industry, no honest leadership, business fashion education and modern technology (latest trends) to support the growing demand and the number of events with return on investment for the organization of the "show" part.

In addition, there seems to be no motivation or financial support from the government what so ever, nor interest for reviving this industry. Pity, I say, especially when there are young, talented and driven people who can be the future stars and key drivers of this industry not only for this region but further as well.

Here are couple of good examples that have bravely stepped outside of the local boundaries, did it all on their own, and now they are writing their own success stories.

Even though maybe they did not learn this in local fashion schools, but through experience and trial and error method, they quickly started picking up the business part of the industry as well: brand building, advertising, self promotion, pricing (still to be improved), online presence, expanding their portfolio to accessories etc.

Marko I had a chance to meet in person and I saw his show live this past June. He truly is a great designer and definitely a couturier of the future, I would like to say he reminds me of my favorite - Alex McQueen, but I think this is still very much to premature to claim.

His collection awakes all of your senses; Marko manages to keep your interest with every immaculate piece of art he creates. He seems to have gathered a great team of artists to work with, which has proved to be a wining combo for the kind of garments he makes. One thing that definitely needs an improvement is his diva attitude and professionalism which could have been on much greater level all together. Enjoy Marko's craftsmanship bellow.

Juraj is creating sellable art pieces season in and season out. His business scent is definitely more developed than most of the other local designers and he seems to have found his niche market. The only remark I would have for his work is to finish his website asap and have his contact posted for showrooms worldwide to be able to order these fabulous pieces! Good luck Juraj!

This duo has established themselves as a local celebrity choice and a go to designers for prom dresses of young and hip teenagers. They are focused on creating much more commercial wear than above two designers but they have well recognized brand image locally. Since recently, they have stepped out of Croatian borders and I am sure their great website and their comprehensive business plan had something to do with it. In addition, cooperation with different companies, clubs etc. have added to their visibility and their resume. Very positive and fun duo with equally bright future!